Hiker airlifted from Snowmass Lake area after altitude sickness sets in

A hiker was airlifted from Snowmass Lake area on Thursday after the person’s traveling companion thought altitude sickness was an issue, the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office said Friday.

After leaving the person, who was unable to continue, below Snowmass Lake, the partner walked out Snowmass Creek Trail and contacted authorities at about 3 p.m. No ages or descriptions of the two were released.

The two were in the backcountry for a few days, the reporting party said. A medical helicopter from St Mary’s Careflight was dispatched.

“Understanding the potential seriousness of the situation, Mountain Rescue Aspen mobilized immediately, deploying foot teams up the trail with medical supplies,” the news release said. “After careful review of the conditions, subject symptoms, and evacuation options, a helicopter from St Mary's Careflight responded to the area for a medical evacuation.”

No update on the hiker’s condition was released. In all, 17 members of MRA were involved in the rescue.